Geranium - Pelargonium graveolens

8:59 AM Posted by jo

Who doesn't love the scent of flowers? Smelling geranium is almost like smelling a bouquet of roses. The aroma of geranium is positive and happy and it lifts the mood. It is an uplifting aroma while it is also very calming and relaxing. Geranium is one of my feel good oils, it lifts my mood with its pleasant floral aroma. It is very balancing and calming and puts me in a state of well-being.

Aroma
Geranium has a warm, sweet, heavy rose-like aroma. The middle note still has a rose aroma but the characteristic geranium aroma is more obvious. The base note is sweeter and not as heavy. It is fresh with some citrus and it smells like the geranium plant.

Characteristics
Geranium is yellowish and it leaves no stain on the perfume blotter. The taste is flowery, bitter, and warms the mouth. It is like eating a whole flower and the taste remains for hours.

Family and place of origin
Geranium belongs to the botanical family Geraniaceae. It is steam distilled and it comes from India, Egypt, Morocco, Japan, and Spain. It is native to South Africa and was introduced to Europe in the 17th century.

Historic uses
Geranium has historically been used as a wound healer and it has been used for centuries for skin care. According to Battaglia the main medical use in the past was the treatment of dysentery and diarrhea.

Indications
According to Battaglia, Pelargonium graveolens has diuretic properties and has traditionally been used for conditions such as gall stones and jaundice. He also says it has a stimulating effect on the lymphatic system which can help relieve fluid retention, congestion and swollen ankles. Jean Valnet, MD, recommends geranium for hepatitis and other liver disorders.

It has traditionally also been used when there is a need for relieving congestion.

According to Battaglia, it stimulates the adrenal cortex, which regulates the hormonal system, and therefor geranium is traditionally recommended for where fluctuating hormones are a problem. Battaglia, says it useful in treating PMS and menopause problems.

According to Battaglia, geranium has a balancing effect on the nervous system. It is sedative and uplifting and may be used in a massage, bath or diffuser to relieve nervous tension. It may help to release negative memories.

According to Battaglia, the cicatrizant and antiseptic actions make geranium very useful in the treatment of wounds, burns, and ulcers. He also says it balances the sebum of the sebaceous glands so it makes geranium valuable for either oily, dry, or combination skin.

Other uses
According to Gary Young, geranium may also be used for circulatory problems, gingivitis, neuralgia, regenerating tissue and nerves, tumor growths, skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, ringworm, sore throat, pancreas imbalances and insomnia.

Safety data
Avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy. It is generally non toxic but it may irritate the skin in persons with sensitive skin.

Caution: Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and an she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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